More people will die in Illinois car accidents this year than last year, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation, which is pushing for safe driving through the upcoming New Year’s holiday.
While it appears to be a safe bet that fewer fatal Chicago car accidents will be recorded — 129 were recorded through Wednesday, compared to 141 during the same period a year ago — the number of motorists killed in accidents statewide has already surpassed last year’s all-time low.Our Chicago injury lawyers wish each of you a safe and enjoyable New Year’s holiday and encourage you to stay safe and don’t drink and drive.
Last year, 911 people were killed in Illinois traffic accidents — the fewest in almost a century of reporting. With the rebounding economy comes an increased risk of car accidents. So far this year, 916 motorists have been killed. The state is putting a positive spin on the increase by noting that it will likely be only the second time since the early 20th century that fewer than 1,000 traffic fatalities have been recorded in Illinois during any given year.
The New Year’s weekend will see a continuation of the statewide “Click it or Ticket” and “You Drink & Drive. You Lose” campaigns. Hundreds of late-night roadside safety checks, safety belt enforcement zones and saturation patrols are also planned.
“IDOT continuously partners with state and local police to ensure motorists who choose to drive impaired are caught, arrested and removed from Illinois roadways,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig. “Unfortunately, New Year’s Eve can be one of the deadliest and most dangerous times on Illinois roads due to an increase in impaired driving and fewer people buckling up. We advise motorists to please make the right decision every time by designating a sober driver before celebrating and always buckling up.”
Particular emphasis will be put on increased enforcement during the deadly evening and nighttime hours.
“The Illinois State Police is fully committed to using every resource possible to make Illinois roads safer,” said Acting Illinois State Police Director Jonathon Monken. “Although the loss of even one life is one too many … we are optimistic our holiday enforcement efforts will help Illinois conclude its second straight year with fewer than 1,000 fatalities.”
Last year, six people were killed on Illinois’ roads during the four-day New Year’s Holiday and nearly 500 were seriously injured.
IDOT offers the following safety tips:
-Plan ahead.
-Designate a sober driver.
-Use community programs designed to get you home safely.
-Report impaired drivers.
-Buckle Up.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, the Chicago personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes offer free and confidential appointments to discuss your rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS.